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When we glanced at the neighborhood circular last week we hoped we were just seeing things because we had skipped snack time: Sonora Cafe, that La Brea landmark devoted to nouveau tastes of the Southwest, was going to dish up its last relleno on Saturday, November 15. But the news is true: Beverly Press reports that Yummy Foods, a market, is already on tap to be the next tenant.

Shall we take a moment to sigh for this elegant yet unfussy eatery? We loved the warm space, the mellow friendliness of the staff and of course the chile-perfect dishes (we still revisit, in our minds, a creamy, piquant soup we enjoyed one cold December afternoon years back). Word is the owner is looking for a new space for his place; let's hope that comes soon. 180 S. La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles. 323-857-1800

FAREWELL JAY: Jay Fiondella, the man behind the legendary Chez Jay's, has died at the age of 82. Mr. Fiondella, besides creating a restaurant of character that's attracted stars and weathered the decades, was behind a number of dishes that entered LA lore. One, Sand Dabs Saute Almondine, is, in our minds, as much a part of our city's culinary history as the French Dip or the date shake. 1657 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica. 310-395-1741

WHITE TRUFFLE TIME: We don't believe we're alone when we admit we'll eat truffle salt on anything (even neat), but we prefer truffles accentuating other flavors. In that spirit, diners can enjoy white truffles in a host of gourmet dishes at a three-day truffle-themed event at Patina. The special menu has a pumpkin gnocchi with chive jus, which is all we need to hear to unhand the salt jar. Tuesday, November 11 through Thursday, November 13. 141 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles. 213-972-3331